Andrei Arshavin’s two virtuoso performances for Russia have stamped the slight forward as the player of Euro 2008 ahead of the likes of Ronaldo and Sneijder.

The 27-year old was forced to sit out of Russia’s two opening games but once free of his ban he has left an indelible mark on the tournament.

His starring role gloriously vindicated coach Guus Hiddink’s decision to keep him in the squad despite his two match ban picked up in the qualifiers. “I came here hoping I’d get a chance to play at such a big tournament,” the Zenit St. Petersburg star told a website. “I’ve never been to an event like this before. We had some very tough training sessions and it was difficult for me to be training a lot knowing I wouldn’t be playing.

“It was an unusual feeling. Even so I’m happy Guus Hiddink brought me here despite the ban and let me become a part of the tournament.” With a touch of Russian modesty he played down his role in getting the country to their first European semis.